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“Amazing Australians doing great things” in the community are being encouraged to apply for a share of a $1 million grant.

AMP’s Tomorrow Fund, which launches on Thursday, is seeking individuals working towards a goal that will positively impact the community but need help to make it happen.

Now in its fifth year, the program is open to Australians of all ages, interests and abilities.

So-called Tomorrow Makers can apply for grants from $5,000 up to $100,000 for a range of activities, including travel, equipment, study costs and research.

Helen Liondos, head of sustainability and the AMP Foundation, said they were “astounded” every year at the talent and innovation that was out there in the community.

“Over the years we’ve noticed a rise in the number of individuals who are spearheading social initiatives and working on environmental initiatives. And we always get a great response from musicians, medical researchers and athletes,” Liondos said.

“The really heartening aspect is that they do span all ages and locations – it’s very accessible.

“The feedback we get from applicants every year is that our grants are unique.

“We see AMP’s Tomorrow Fund as a way to support hardworking changemakers who often fall through the funding gaps. And we know from our past recipients that our AMP Tomorrow Fund grants provide the boost in finances and confidence that helps them achieve great things.”

The AMP Foundation is the main vehicle through which AMP invests in the community.

One of last year’s winners, Sam Marwood, the founder of Cultivate Farms, a social enterprise that matches aspiring farmers with people retiring from the land to revitalise rural communities, told Pro Bono News being a Tomorrow Maker had opened doors.

“Receiving the money to invest in your enterprise is great – and always needed – but it’s the recognition that is worth so much more,” Marwood said.

“It has provided validation in the agricultural industry and even on a personal level, amongst my peers.

“Saying you are an AMP Tomorrow Maker opens doors and is a real conversation starter. It signals that a well-respected funder thinks you’re onto something.”

Applications for this year’s grants are open until 4pm (AEST) on 17 May, with grant recipients announced in November 2018.

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